Santa Comes to ZNY

Santa Comes to ZNY

By Adrienne Anthony, Director of Resources

As we all know, November and December are the busiest times in the North Pole due to the workload for Santa, elves and reindeer. Santa has his biggest night on December 24th, however we never think about the mall and store appearances and finding suitable Santa representatives who get all the children’s wish lists. In 2022, in a spirit of work life balance, Santa gave elves and reindeer Saturday, December 17th off. Unfortunately, after deciding to give the day off, New York Air Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) requested a visit from Santa for the children of the air traffic controllers. Santa did not want to disappoint New York ARTCC especially since they keep him safe on his most important night of the year! It felt important that all the girls and boys were able to receive their presents.

New York ARTCC was able to come up with a solution with the help of Professional Women Controllers (PWC) and National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA). Though it wasn't quite a reindeer, New York ARTCC arranged for the transportation of Santa via a helicopter. Vanessa Shinners, Vice President of PWC, participated as one of Santa's helpers. Adrienne Anthony, Director of Resources for PWC, helped with decorations and organization. Isaac Lind, New England Regional Director for PWC, agreed to take on the important role of standing in for Santa.

Once we had our roles, the work began! In minimal time, Tia Moore (New York Center Staff manager), Travis Stockberger (New York Center Operations Supervisor), Vanessa Shinners (New York Center Staff Manager), and Adrienne Anthony (New York Center TMC) started to decorate and turn a training room into a Christmas oasis. Prior to the event, we had parents bring their kids a wrapped gift so they would receive a more personalized gift from Santa when they came to visit. Refreshments were provided with collaboration between NATCA and PWC. The event was made merry with gourmet cookies, donuts, coffee, hot chocolate and many other treats. We also had coloring books that educated the duties of air traffic control that were digestible for kids. We were excited it was going to be a hit!

Around 11:30 in the morning, the children and parents stood outside anxiously waiting for the arrival of Santa. Seemingly by magic, Santa and his elf flew by in a helicopter waving to the crowd, leaving them in awe. Santa flew by a second time before landing and leading the children into our Christmas oasis. Once inside, children ate, took turns sitting on Santa’s lap, and received their curated gifts. There were merry children everywhere and our day was a success! We created a spectacular Christmas event without disturb the rest day at the North Pole!

The WATCH - Spring 2023 | Page 10